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Music Lesson Reviews from Students

Students are raving about their Music instructors on TakeLessons.
Check out some of these recent reviews.

Review by Steven

"Molly is fantastic! Animated, fun to work with, but most importantly really knows her stuff! Definitely a five star recommendation from this student, who

also happens to be a TakeLessons keyboard instructor as well... I know what I'm talking about!"

...

Chicago, IL teacher:
Molly M.

Review by Julia

"Dan is wonderful!"

Chicago, IL teacher:
Dan K.

Review by Hailey

"My daughter had her 1st lesson yesterday and she really enjoyed it! She is looking forward to next week. Afte her lesson my daughter said" mommy, I like D

estiny, I want to keep her for the rest of my life"."

...

Chicago, IL teacher:
Destiny P.

Review by Hedda

"She was very patient and went at the pace that was right for me."

Chicago, IL teacher:
Britta Y.

Review by Kayla

"Every time he sings gives me goosebumps :)"

Chicago, IL teacher:
Aleksandar D.

Review by Rebecca

"I've been singing my whole life, but Benjamin is the first instructor I've had and I'm really glad I decided to take lessons with him. I look forward to e

ach lesson because I know I'm going to learn something new each time I do. He's very helpful, very knowledgeable, and gives great instructions on areas I need to improve on. I've only had a few lessons and I've learned so much. I feel grateful to have found a voice teacher this patient and fun to work with. I was also unsure how the lessons would be since I'm taking them online, but I feel like I'm getting just as much out of them as I would in person. I definitely recommend him to anyone!"

...

Chicago, IL teacher:
Benjamin K.

Review by Kafi

"I bought guitar lessons as a Christmas present for my Dad and he loved his lessons from Kelvin! He said Kelvin was a great teacher and catered the lesson

perfectly for my Dad's level and what he wanted to get out of the lessons."

...

Chicago, IL teacher:
Kelvin L.

Review by Alex

"Very good!"

Chicago, IL teacher:
Kelvin L.

Review by James

"Had my first lesson today with Paul, we spent almost the entire lesson getting a game plan together and getting to know each other. He was very open to te

aching me what I want to play, he also played for me and explained how he likes to enhance songs and make them more dynamic. It was a good first lesson, I think we will be a nice fit. Time to get to work, Christmas is not that far away and I will be learning a couple of songs for the holiday season."

About Derrick M.

About Derrick

Derrick began playing the drums at the age of 8 in the elementary school concert band. He started out on just a snare drum but when he was 12, he got his first real drum set, and started a life of music.

Fast forward a few years and Derrick had experience playing in jazz bands, marching bands, concert bands, steel pan calypso band, along with his local garage band. After high school, Derrick moved to California to attend the Musicians Institutes in Hollywood California. There he studied under some of the greatest professionals in the business, and was exposed to a wide variety of music styles ranging from, Latin, R&B, Jazz, Funk, Rock, etc.

After graduating from school, Derrick moved back to Chicago where he has been playing weekly gigs, and touring around the country with his bands. Derrick is a young, energetic, but most importa

ntly, patient drummer, who loves to share his craft with the world.

*** Lesson Details ***Derrick is laid back in his teaching style, but expects all of his students to practice and make weekly progression. He uses time tested and proven books and methods to teach his students the mechanics, theories, and techniques it takes to be a world class drummer. Reading and snare exercises are an important part of the curriculum, but not the main focus. He likes his students to enjoy what they are doing, so he brings other things to the lessons such as fun endurance and rhythm games. A brand new student that is dedicated to practicing could expect to be learning their favorite songs in 3 months time, and be playing in bands shortly afterward.

*** Studio Equipment ***All pro gear! Ludwig, Dw, Pearl, Mapex, Zildjian, Sabian and more. Multiple drum kits set up in the studio, along with sound system, and mac book pro.

*** Travel Equipment ***I will bring lesson material (books, sheet music, etc.) and iPod with apps such as metronome and the ability to listen to music. Isolation headphones to listen to songs while playing along. Stick, brushes. Anything else I might need.

Students are expected to have drum sticks a music stand and at very minimum a practice pad, all though a drum set is preferable.

*** Specialties ***Drum set is my specialty. I have experience with all major styles of music, and can teach any style. Other emphasis on playing in a band and percussion.

...

Reviews

Mikhail C. June 19, 2015·Drum·In home

My son really enjoyed his first lesson. He was able to play a little right away, which made it more fun for him.

Mike A. February 23, 2014·Drum·

Great teacher!

Great with my daughter (age 7). She looks forward to her lesson every week, and is learning rapidly. He has great patience and has gotten to know my daughter and listens to her feedback while at the same time offering encouraging instruction.

Shirley L. December 29, 2013·Drum·

Great Drum Teacher

My daughter had been taking private drum lesson for years before she started with Derrick. At the first lesson, Derrick told her how important it was to feel the music, other than just working on technique. That was exactly what she needed to work on. Derrick has a broad experience with playing different type of music. He likes to show her how to play, which helps her understand right away. He is very nice and patient. He is flexible and reliable in terms of lesson schedules. He uses lots of references, songs and exercises in his teaching. Now, my daughter enjoys her lessons and practices a lot more.

Derrick M.

Derrick M.

About Kay S.

About Katherine (Kay)

Taught 41 years as a band directorPrincipal Trumpet with Beloit/Janesville Symphony

I like to teach in a style that is functional and interesting. Students will be doing a variety of activities at each lesson. The focus will be determined by their needs.

As students become more proficient in music their enjoyment of musical activities will increase. The success of completing various levels of musical achievement will carry over to other lifetime skills.

*** Lesson Details ***I will work with each student depending on their individual needs. We will strive to produce steady improvement in player proficiency.

*** Travel Equipment ***Student should have a music stand and instrument

*** Specialties ***I like to teach based on the individual. I have taught group and private lessons. The materials I use are varied, with an emphas

is on scales, theory, and also some duet playing. I also like to incorporate some music history into each lesson. I feel that each student needs to work from known to the new areas. I often use supplementary materials (solos or small ensembles) to reinforce my teaching.

...

Reviews

VICTORIA June 22, 2016·Drum·In home

Kay is awesome. My daughter loved her. She is very patience and kept Victoria engaged.

Angelique B. June 7, 2015·Saxophone·In studio

Kay is very knowledgeable, kind and accommodating. She is very encouraging and never makes me feel dumb when I hit a sour note. (As a beginning beginner, that happens a lot!) I am amazed at how much I have learned in such a short time!

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Kay S.

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Kay S.

Clinton, WI 53525

(2)

starting at

$20
/ 30-min

About Megan W.

About Megan

I have a background in classical symphony and wind ensemble music. I have played the flute and piccolo for 17 years, graduated from the Visual and Performing Arts Academy out of Elgin IL in 2007 and received the Arion award for musicianship. My experience in teaching private lessons has been primarily with beginner to intermediate level players, who either would like to learn for the first time, or that currently play in an ensemble and would benefit from one on one focused study.

I currently play with the Buffalo Grove Symphonic Band, am a performing and board member of the Lakeside Flutes, and also perform private events, such as weddings.

...

Reviews

Ava D. April 4, 2018·Flute·In studio

Daughter was really happy with first lesson, learned 3 new notes.

Christine B. October 27, 2014·Flute·In home

Megan is very talented and has a lovely, gentle way about her. She is a really good fit for my daughter.

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Megan W.

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Megan W.

Des Plaines, IL 60018

(2)

starting at

$20
/ 30-min

About Steven B.

About Steven

I have been studying and performing music for 20+ years. After majoring in music at College of Dupage in Glen Ellyn IL, I went to step up my level of study at the Percussion Institute of Technology (P.I.T.) at Musician's Institute in Hollywood, CA in 2001 attaining a Performance Certificate from my time studying there.

Moving back to Chicago after L.A. in 2002 proved to be the right move as this is when I began my teaching career. With 13+ years of private and group music instruction experience, I have worked with Hix Brothers Music, Naperville Music, Roselle Music, Streamwood Park District, Roselle Park District, Schaumburg Park District, After School Enrichment Solution's Guitar Stars, Band For Today, Guitar Fundamentals, Chicago Guitar Instruction, Schaumburg Music Academy, Music Makers of Western Springs, Clarendon Hills Music Ac

ademy, and also maintain a private clientele. Well into a thousand lessons taught, students have stayed with me for up to 7 years. You, the student, will gain all the experience I have gained from my 20 years of study, performance, and instruction.

Performing with various bands in the 2000's, I pinpointed my style and mastered my technique that gave me many performance opportunities regionally and nationally, noting most current act U2 tribute Vertigo USA.

I am co-founder of the music licensing production company Blue Shade Music, co-writing with astute musicians in the Chicago area for music libraries in Florida and California currently.

With national and international touring experience, I was featured in an exclusive interview for Online Drummer in August of 2011 sharing my knowledge and experience of music and drums.

Thank you for reading, and I hope to have a fun and educational time with you!

*** Lesson Details ***Practicing everyday with an occasional day off is very important in the student's progress. I always say 10 minutes is better than 0 minutes.

For DRUM lessons, the student can expect to learn:*to read music notation and music charts*to read drum notation*songs by real bands*timekeeping via a metronome*hand technique and foot technique*rudiments*all styles of music*double bass*drum grooves and drum fills*marching band/concert band material (if involved in school)

For PIANO lessons, the student can expect to learn:*to read music notation*to read music charts/lead sheets*music theory*intervals*chords and inversions*chord progressions*scales*fingering*styles of blues, jazz, pop, rock, and traditional*songs you wish to learn

For GUITAR + BASS lessons, the student can expect to learn:*to learn to read music notation*to learn to read a music chart*music theory*scales*chords*chord progressions*fingering*styles of pop, rock, and blues*songs you wish to learn

*** Travel Equipment ***I provide no equipment. The student must have an acoustic or electric drum set, a practice pad, a music stand, a metronome, sticks, curriculum book(s), headphones, an acoustic or electric guitar, and an acoustic or electric piano.

**Travel available for in home lessons up to 15 miles pending location, scheduling, and availability. 2 weeks or more notice is required for discontinuation of lessons.**

...

Reviews

Caryn October 17, 2017·Guitar·In home

Steven is very patient with new beginners and explained things thoroughly. He gave me the necessary tools to practice on my own until our next lesson .

A.M. August 26, 2017·Drum·In studio

Steven was beyond helpful. He is always prepared and open to as many questions as you can think of. And if you don't fully understand the answer, he'll take the time to answer in different ways, so that you're on the same page. He was also very helpful in setting up the lesson times and locations.

It was my first time trying the drums and I didn't have a drum set yet. Steven took the time to sit down with me and discuss which drum sets were good for the price.

Overall, this was a great experience!

Melanee J. October 9, 2016·Guitar·In home

I'm a true challenge since I am very green with little music capability. Great introduction with plenty to work on.

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Steven B.

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Steven B.

Elk Grove Village, IL 60007

(19)

starting at

$35
/ 30-min

About Martina S.

About Martina

Hi! My name is Martina and I am a classically trained violist. For my background, I received a Master of Music from Roosevelt University, where I studied with Lawrence Neuman of the Chicago Symphony. I received an undergraduate degree from the University of Wisconsin with Sally Chisholm of the Pro Arte quartet.

The only thing I love more than playing viola is sharing the joy of music with others! I've received training on violin and viola and can't wait to start teaching you or your child.

*** Lesson Details ***I tailor my approach to each student to make sure that: 1.) The student is getting exactly what he/she wants out of the lessons. 2.) The lessons are an appropriate difficulty for the student. 3.) A student's strengths and weaknesses are being addressed with a tailor-made lesson plan and long-term goals.

***

Travel Equipment ***I can provide a stand. Student is responsible for purchasing an instrument, and any sheet music. I can definitely advise on an instrument to purchase and will instruct with specific music requests.

...

Reviews

Stephanie Pp April 4, 2018·Classical Piano·In home

felt welcomed and looking forward to my next lesson.

MacKenzie October 20, 2017·Violin·Online

MacKenzie April 5, 2017·Violin·Online

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Martina S.

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Martina S.

Oak Park, IL 60304

(16)

starting at

$35
/ 30-min

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About Molly M.

About Molly

I have been teaching for 16 years: kids, teens-even beginner vocalists in their seventies! Rockers, an "Idol" finalist, church musicians, lapsed opera singers, preschoolers. ...these are just a few of singers I have worked with, in person, in the classroom, and ONLINE (I just love teaching singers all over the country and the world!) .

What you get in voice lessons with me: laughter as you learn! I have learned solid classical vocal technique from the very best . I have trained with respected opera singers who have performed with companies such as Lyric Opera of Chicago, as well as leaders in vocal pedagogy. I believe everyone deserves the same useful tools- no matter what it is you like to sing!

I am patient and customize each and every lesson. Need more time on ear training? No problem . How about beginning music theory? I can

help with that,too. Are you feeling more confident, and want to focus more on song polishing and getting into the heart of your songs? Let's do it! Confidence an issue? I am a pro with very shy people. I'll get you out of your shell, relaxed, and having fun right away so we can free that voice of yours! I have worked with many singers who have been diagnosed with anxiety: you're in good hands and you can trust me with your voice.

I am also a drama teacher who has worked with groups as well as individuals. Currently, I am the drama instructor at a Montessori School. I love working with beginning acting students! I'll assist with monologue prep, improvisation, voice for the stage, body awareness, and more. I love being on stage and want you to see how fun it is to jump in and let go,too!

I am a constant student in the world of theatre. I am currently taking many courses with the Drama Teacher Academy, and just received a certificate for monologue work ! Currently studying more improv and musical theatre techniques. I want my students to have as many skills as possible, no matter where their love for theatre or music takes them.

If you're interested in beginner ear training or music theory, I'd love to help you with that as well. I present it in a no-nonsense and fun manner! I'll provide you with simple worksheets to increase your confidence in learning the language of music, as well as run you through increasingly challenging patterns and sight reading for the ear training. Don't be afraid: I make it easy and customize it all. I used to be scared of theory,too- so I know what works!

I have been singing for over 20 years. Performances with the Lira Ensemble and Opera on Tap Chicago, and in master classes with international opera stars Alan Held and Lorna Haywood. Coaching with Collaborative Works Chicago and Rossini Opera Festival. Additional studies in Rock Vocals, Voice Care, Improvisational Comedy, Holistic Voice, Acting, Foreign languages, Dalcroze, Speaking Voice for Singers, , Commercial Vocal Styles/Belting with Lisa Popeil, teacher mentoring workshop with Maestro David Jones. Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance. Additional workshops in Vocal Pedagogy with David Sabella-Mills, Jeannie LoVetri. Dr. Karen Prokop, Melissa Cross (the queen of healthy scream technique!), Sheri Sanders Rock the Audition training), and Chicago Cabaret Professionals.

Certified CoreSinging Instructor- one of only a few in the U.S. trained by Meribeth Dayme, PhD, respected clinician and authority in vocal pedagogy and author of "The Singing Book".

Completed John Henny's New Science of Singing course.

My students do a variety of great things! One was a top 12 "American Idol" finalist. Current students perform in musicals, top rated choirs, and professional rock , jazz,and blues bands. Many have won awards for their singing at competitions such as NATS. Students of mine have also been accepted to prestigious performing arts high schools for both drama and music, as well as undergraduate music programs in the US and Europe.

I think if you can speak, you can sing. Everyone can and should sing! Don't let anything hold you back. I am a people person that is very passionate about music and singing, and want to be the teacher you'll trust with your voice. Come laugh and learn with me!

*** Specialties ***Beginner vocalists! Very shy singers. Children, teens. Lapsed singers, and seniors. Experience in working with those with learning disabilities , special needs, and victims of abuse. Have also worked with the transgendered community. I also love to give workshops.

...

Reviews

Diana May 23, 2018·Singing·Online

Bethann May 22, 2018·Child Acting·Online

Our last lesson was the best one of all. Bye. Love you. From Emma and Caleb!

Shelby May 17, 2018·Speaking Voice·Online

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Molly M.

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Molly M.

Schaumburg, IL 60193

(186)

starting at

$35
/ 30-min

About Fernando L.

About Fernando

Hi there! My name is Fernando L. and I am looking forward to working with you. I have helped many students throughout my four years of private teaching. I am currently working with "Mariachi Oro y Plata", and had the honor to also work with Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestra. I look forward to working with you and achieving your goals soon.

*Travel Equipment*My violin, tuner, stand, metronome, and books. I expect the student to have his/her very own violin and stand.

*My Specialties* Private or group lessons for all ages, competition/ audition preparation as well.

What to expect?Expect to have fun and a learning experience. If you are determined, passionate and/or dedicated, what are you waiting for?

...

Reviews

Max A. September 26, 2017·Violin·In home

Fernando was fantastic with my 14 year old son. He asked what type of music he wanted to play to keep him engaged. He had a great 45 minute lesson with him. Fernando is passionate about violin and it shows. Looking forward to continuing with Fernando! Highly recommend him!

Lucia A. September 26, 2017·Violin·In home

Fernando was great with my seven year old daughter. He kept her engaged for 45 minutes. She enjoyed her lesson and is excited to continue lessons with him. Highly recommend him!

Carlos S. June 12, 2017·Violin·In studio

Very professional and patient with student. Can't wait to keep working with him.

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Fernando L.

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Fernando L.

Cicero, IL 60804

(3)

starting at

$27
/ 30-min

About Ryan B.

About Ryan

Ryan is a musician from Jefferson Park who plays a plethora of different instruments. He specializes in guitar, banjo, mandolin and ukulele, but also dabbles in accordion, piano, drums, harmonica and several others. Learning to play instruments is one of the true pleasures in his life and he hopes he can make it one of yours, too.

As a teacher Ryan's goals are fairly simple. First and foremost he wants to make his lessons comfortable, interesting and fun. A close second is to build a strong foundation on the basics, so as we learn more advanced techniques we have a solid base of technique to build upon. And third, an understanding of the theory and history behind the music is a great way to engage in the music beyond just the rote learning of technique.

After a brief foray in physics, Ryan settle into a degree in music at the Univer

sity of Illinois, specializing in Ethnomusicology (the study of music of different cultures). This education gave him a strong background in music theory and history in the Western tradition, but also opened him up to a vast experience of a diverse cross section of music from around the world. His insatiable love for learning new instruments started here, where he studied music from West Africa to Bali.

Currently Ryan is a co-lead singer, songwriter and stringed instrument player for the local band Distant Brothers, a folk rock band based out of Chicago. They play venues throughout the Midwest, with some of the notable venues being House of Blues, Metro and Cubby Bear in Chicago. Another highlight of his time with the band has been a collaboration with Oistrakh Symphony Orchestra, where he not only was able to play in collaboration with the orchestra, but joined in the arranging and conceptualization of some of the pieces played.

...

Reviews

Fran C. May 24, 2018·Ukulele·Online

So far so good! Instructor very knowledgeable. Felt very comfortable with the online experience. First time for me. Feel quite motivated after first lesson. Look forward to next. Thank you Ryan.

Sigrid May 20, 2018·Banjo·Online

CPO Rob March 29, 2018·Banjo·Online

I am a 60+ guy that had gotten a banjo for Christmas. I had one many, many years ago and I wanted to start again with lessons. With Take a Lesson I met up with Ryan. Here is a Kool layed back kinda guy that is a musician and a real good instructor. He has taken me from zero to cords and rolls. He listens well and is flexible enough that you learn at your own speed. Get in line for this Guy. Thanks Ryan!

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Ryan B.

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Ryan B.

Chicago, IL 60646

(26)

starting at

$20
/ 30-min

About Katarina L.

About Katarina

I attended six years at State Conservatory and graduated with Magister degree from Comenius University in former Czechoslovakia. I performed during my college years with a chamber vocal-instrumental ensemble. I started teaching piano and music theory in 1987 at a music school and later I was giving piano lessons at private homes in Slovakia. In USA I traveled to homes to teach piano for several years. Currently I am a substitute piano and voice teacher at a local music/arts school.

...

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Katarina L.

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Katarina L.

Westmont, IL 60559

starting at

$35
/ 30-min

About William C.

About William

William Cooper has been teaching private trumpet lessons since 2009. William is currently pursuing a Master of Music at Northwestern University, where he also received a Bachelor of Music in 2013. Since 2012 he has been an active performer, playing with the Civic Orchestra of Chicago (until 2014), the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra, and as a highly-regarded freelance classical musician in the Central Florida region. Other orchestral performances include performances with the Brevard Music Center Orchestra and the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. Many of William's middle and high school students have been selected for all-district and all-state bands and orchestras.

William strives to make music fun and enjoyable to his students while challenging them to be the best they can be.

...

Reviews

Grant September 7, 2016·Trumpet·In studio

William is a great teacher. My son really enjoys the lessons and he is learning a lot.

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